Defense mechanisms, as defined by many psychologists are “manners in which we behave or think in certain ways to better protect or ‘defend’ ourselves.” In other words, defense mechanisms are what we often use as a means of self-defense when faced with conflict.
Defense mechanisms often give us a way of coping with “trauma, stress, and challenging life circumstances” that we may encounter throughout our lives. While many common defense mechanisms we do can have negative effects on our wellbeing, there is also an abundance of healthy defense mechanisms that are important to consider when we deal with conflict.
1. Assertiveness
Assertiveness is what we often use to defend ourselves when we are refusing to partake in something that we are uncomfortable doing, such as saying no to alcohol or drugs at social gatherings or not getting intimate with someone we are not yet close to.
Additionally, we may also use assertiveness in less dire situations such as choosing to study for an exam over going out with friends or prioritizing our mental health in times of need. It is important to have assertiveness as a defense mechanism because it teaches us how to effectively refuse any request that may be harmful to our well-being and mental health or may get in the way of our responsibilities.
2. Altruisim
As defined by Verywell Mind, altruism is “the unselfish concern for other people.” This means that we may choose to go out of our way to help those in need out of the concern that we have for them. For example, we may choose to donate to a fundraiser or charity dedicated to benefiting those in need, or we may actively help someone regardless of any personal issues that may be going on in our lives. Incorporating altruism into your life can benefit the lives of those in need as you are putting the needs of others before your own.
3. humor
Being able to bring humor into a stressful situation can make someone’s day a little brighter as it can help them feel better about the conflicts that may be going on in their lives and ultimately may help them to move on from those conflicts.
Additionally, you can also use humor to bring more positivity into your own life as well. So, find what brings you or someone else joy and makes the most out of it!
4. Sublimation
Psychology Today defines sublimation as the defense mechanism, “that involves channeling unwanted or unacceptable urges into an admissible or productive outlet.” This especially comes into play when we engage in activities that allow us to let out our frustrations or anxiety in a way where we don’t take it out on others. For instance, you may decide to go on a jog or work on an art project to let out your emotions when you have had an incredibly stressful or frustrating day. Find an activity that you can engage in whenever you experience stress or frustration.
As defense mechanisms can benefit us in the most critical of times, we can become better versions of ourselves and can get through any set of challenges that may present themselves.
XOXO Her Campus